IPL 2025’s Surprise Twist: Why All Eyes Are on Mullanpur Stadium –
The Indian Premier League has never been a show of entertainment, edge-of-the-seat finishes, and sudden drama — both on and off the pitch. But IPL 2025 has introduced a new and unexpected twist to its tale. As fans prepared for the playoffs to unfold in traditional powerhouses like Hyderabad and Kolkata, the BCCI made a last-minute announcement that turned heads across the cricketing world: Mullanpur Stadium, a relatively new venue near Chandigarh, would host two key playoff matches.
This surprise move has brought the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium into national spotlight. Here’s why this stadium, previously in the background, is now the hub of India’s largest T20 tournament.
A New Chapter for Mullanpur: From League Matches to Playoff Spotlight
Situated within the suburbs of Chandigarh, Mullanpur’s Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium is becoming a beacon of contemporary cricket facilities in India. Constructed by the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), the stadium is a modern, state-of-the-art stadium covering over 41.95 acres and having a seating capacity for 38,000 spectators. The estimated construction cost of more than ₹230 crore testifies to the size and vision of the project.
The New Playoff Schedule: A Strategic Change
With unseasonal showers, logistical issues, and local considerations, the BCCI rearranged the playoff grounds. Here’s the updated IPL 2025 playoff schedule:
Qualifier 1 – May 29 – Mullanpur Stadium, Punjab
Eliminator – May 30 – Punjab’s Mullanpur Stadium
Qualifier 2 – June 1 – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Final – June 3 – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
The decision came as a shock to many, but the logic behind it becomes obvious when we examine closely the rise of Mullanpur to become a world-class venue.
Why the Sudden Focus on Mullanpur stadium?
1. Weather Advantage
The playoffs occur while India is in pre-monsoon weather, when some cities experience capricious rain. Dry late-May weather in Mullanpur made it a safe bet to ensure rain-free matches.
2. Proven Performance
Four league matches of IPL 2025 at Mullanpur ran without any hiccups, drawing accolades for crowd management, facilities for players, and intense fan involvement.
3. Northern India’s Turn
IPL’s limelight has for years been centered on southern and western cities alone. This choice presents North India, and particularly Punjab and Chandigarh, with an opportunity to lay out the warmth and preparedness to host major cricketing occasions.
The Local Impact: Mullanpur Becomes a Cricket Carnival
The news sent a wave of thrill running through Punjab and Chandigarh. Tickets were snatched by fans in a jiffy, hotel rooms were booked, and the local economy got a much-needed fillip. Local shops, travel agencies, restaurants, and souvenir shops are experiencing record demand.
Social networking sites have blown up with fan-generated content under tags such as #MullanpurPlayoffs, #PunjabInIPL, and #CricketInChandigarh. For countless fans across the region, this is not cricket — this is a moment of pride long awaited.
A Gateway to the Future
The success of these two playoff matches might unlock new gates for Mullanpur. If the stadium keeps delivering, it could very soon host:
International matches (India vs. visiting countries)
Women’s Premier League (WPL) matches
Test and ODI series
National squad youth and academy camps
It also makes the argument for the rotation of IPL Finals and playoffs to different regions in the future even stronger.
Conclusion: Punjab's Grand Cricketing Comeback
IPL 2025’s playoff twist was unexpected — but it might be one of the best decisions the BCCI has made in recent years. By giving Mullanpur a chance to shine, the league has not only diversified its footprint but also honored a region that has contributed legendary cricketers to Indian history.
While stadium lights shine brightly on May 29 and 30, one thing is clear: Mullanpur is ready to take on the big stage, and it’s just beginning.
1. Why was Mullanpur Stadium selected for IPL 2025 playoffs?
Answer:-It was chosen because of its contemporary infrastructure, weather consistency throughout late May, and immaculate hosting of league matches previously in the IPL 2025 season. With uncertain rains predicted in cities such as Hyderabad and Kolkata, the BCCI selected the dry weather at Mullanpur and a favorable drainage system to ascertain unintermittent matches.
2. Where is Mullanpur Cricket Stadium located?
Answer:- Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium is situated at Mullanpur (New Chandigarh), Mohali district of Punjab. It is 10 km from Chandigarh and is the new home ground of the Punjab Cricket Association.
3. What are the IPL 2025 matches being played at Mullanpur Stadium?
Answer:- Two high-profile IPL 2025 playoff matches will be played at Mullanpur Stadium
Qualifier 1 on May 29
Eliminator on May 30
These are high-stakes matches that determine the teams proceeding to the IPL Final in Ahmedabad.
4. What is the seating capacity and special facilities of Mullanpur Stadium?
Answer:- Mullanpur Stadium has a seating capacity of 38,000 and features world-class dressing rooms, LED floodlights, a speedy-drainage outfield, and eco-friendly development. It was constructed at a cost of more than ₹230 crore and ranks among India’s most contemporary cricket stadiums.
5. Will Mullanpur stage upcoming IPL or international matches?
Answer:- Yes, following its success in hosting IPL 2025, Mullanpur is being shortlisted for hosting upcoming IPL Finals, Women’s Premier League (WPL) matches, and even international matches such as ODIs and T20Is. The stadium is also being considered as a possible center for national training camps and academies for young players.
